The Ultimate Kansas State University Bucket List

In honor of the great love we share for our Alma Mater, my husband Colton and I compiled a bucket list of everything we recommend you do in Manhattan, Kansas. Whether you are a new student at Kansas State University or just passing through, everyone should complete The Ultimate Kansas State University Bucket List.

Don’t forget to download your K-State Checklist below and the Travel Planner on the @hyggefamilyprints page on Etsy.

1. Go to a Football Game

If you do nothing else on this list, you need to experience a Kansas State Football Game. Even for me (someone who has difficulty understanding the game) it’s worth every second. From tailgating to the Wabash Cannonball, going to a football game is the best part of the Manhattan Kansas experience.

2. Photo at the Manhattan Sign

Everyone needs a photo at the Manhattan sign! It’s an excellent experience with friends. It’s also a beautiful view of the city from a high vantage point.

3. Stargaze at the Scenic Overlook

The scenic overlook is just outside of town on K-177. It’s the perfect spot for star gazing or even a picnic. This Manhattan gem is definitely underrated.

4. Eat Call Hall Ice Cream

Call Hall ice cream may be the best ice cream in the state of Kansas. My nephews recently experienced Call Hall for the first time and absolutely loved it.

5. Try Shuttle Pizza

It’s average pizza in my opinion, but a necessary tradition when visiting K-State. Remember to flip the box upside down and drop it before eating to get the grease off the top. Again, a strange tradition but necessary.

6. Visit Pillsbury Crossing

Pillsbury Crossing is a beautiful low water river crossing that has a small waterfall. The area is perfect for hiking, canoeing, fishing, or just hanging out.

7. Study at Hale Library

My favorite room at Hale Library was the Great Room or the “Harry Potter Room.” Unfortunately there was a fire at the library in May of 2018. The renovations should be completed soon and the library returned to it’s former glory.

8. Get a Snack at the Varsity Truck

The Varsity Truck is the best choice for late night eats. It has everything from grilled cheese and corn dogs to bacon bombs and donuts. If you love a good late night treat, check out the Varsity Truck.

9. Go to the Sunset Zoo

Fun fact: The Sunset Zoo was where we had our wedding reception. It’s a beautiful venue that holds a special place in my heart. The zoo itself is small and well managed and certainly worth a visit!

10. Try Raspberry Bean Dip at So Long Saloon

The Raspberry Bean Dip at So Long Saloon is a MUST have when visiting Manhattan. Trust us. It’s delicious.

11. See a Performance at McCain

McCain Auditorium has a variety of shows throughout the year, from comedians to musicals to choirs. With such a collection of shows to choose from, there is something for everyone.

12. Play Foot Golf at Wildcat Fitness & Fun

Foot golf is so much fun. It’s a great way to get outside, move your body and have a laugh. I say laugh, because we were terrible at foot golf. Still highly recommended.

13. Go to Aggieville on New Year’s Eve

Instead of watching the ball drop in New York on TV, hang out in the iconic Aggieville to watch the “little apple” drop at midnight. The streets are crowded, but the atmosphere is worth the crowd.

14. Visit the Insect Zoo

The Insect Zoo is another underrated stop in Manhattan, KS. Honestly, I wanted to work there while attending classes. The carpenter ants alone are worth the stop.

15. Bowl at the Student Union

Colton used to bowl at the Student Union every week and he considers it one of his favorite hang-out spots in the city. Grab some friends and go bowling!

16. Hike the Konza Prairie

The Konza Prairie is a beautiful nature preserve just outside of town. The nature trail is only 2.5 miles long, but you can hike up to 6 miles at the Konza if you are feeling adventurous.

17. Eat Breakfast at the Chef

The best pancakes I ever had were at the Chef. Lines are notoriously long at this restaurant for a reason. It’s delicious. Be sure to include this in your K-State experience.

18. Ice Skate in the Park

In the winter an ice skating rink opens in the Manhattan City Park. Sure, you might look like a fool trying to skate, but what’s more winter-y than ice skating? Everyone should try it once.

19. Grab Coffee and a Treat at Radina’s

Radina’s coffee shop believes “food should be simple, delicious, and healthy,” which means their food is made without preservatives or chemicals. It’s also an ideal location for a coffee date.

20. Read a Book at Bluestem Bistro

Bluestem Bistro is located in Aggieville. It’s a great place to sit and read or meet up with friends. Honestly it’s not my favorite stop, but it’s too iconic not to include.

21. Meet Willie the Wildcat

You can catch Willie at Football, Basketball, Volleyball, or just hanging around the campus. Find that magical beast and get a picture.

22. Go Two-Stepping at Dirty Dawgs

One of my fondest memories while attending K-State was two-stepping with my friends at Dirty Dawgs. Go early so you have lots of space to dance. The later it gets the bigger and drunker the crowd.

23. Get Donuts at Varsity Donuts

I’m not a donut person, but these donuts are the most delicious I’ve ever had. They have all sorts, so don’t forget to make this stop a priority.

24. Learn the Alma Mater

You can’t attend K-State without knowing the Alma Mater. It’s vital to your experience. It’s also especially awkward to wear purple, attend a football game and not know the Alma Mater, so we recommend you learn it.

I hope you have enjoyed reading about The Ultimate Kansas State University Bucket List. Don’t forget to download your checklist above! For extra more travel tips for the state of Kansas, check out these additional blog posts:

Best Small Towns in America: Highlights of Lindsborg, KS
Top 10 Best Hikes in Kansas
7 Beautiful Places to Visit in Topeka Kansas
Top 10 Travel Essentials for Your Carry On

As always, if you have any questions feel free to send me an email or message me on Instagram. Follow @bestillandhygge on Pinterest for more travel tips and tricks and subscribe below for new content every week.

Love Always,